Former Saints DE Will Smith Shot and Killed after Traffic Accident

In a true senseless act of violence, a former NFL defense end has lost his life and his wife has been hospitalized after both were shot in New Orleans.

Former New Orleans Saints player Will Smith was shot multiple times after a traffic accident and was pronounced dead at the scene.

His wife was shot as well in the leg and was hospitalized after the incident.

Smith who was only 34, was shot after getting into an argument with the driver of a Hummer H2 that rear-ended his Mercedes SUV, causing him to strike another car, New Orleans police said.

Also according to police, they said the driver of the Hummer H2, Cardell Hayes, 28, has been charged with second-degree murder.

The handgun used in the shooting also has been recovered by police.

Smith is a former captain of the Saints and the organization, his former coach and many players have taken to Twitter to express their sadness and condolences.

Will Smith was drafted by the Saints with in 2004 with the 18th overall pick out of The Ohio State.

He was beloved in New Orleans as he spent all nine of his seasons with the Saints and last played in 2012.

He made it to one Pro Bowl in 2006 and currently ranks fourth in Saints history with 67.5 career sacks. He also won a Super Bowl with the Saints in 2009 and during that season, he recorded his most sacks at 13.